Mnguni explains why Mofokeng stands out for Bafana Bafana

Former Mamelodi Sundowns defender Bennet Mnguni says Relebohile Mofokeng’s ability to avoid contact and move the ball quickly is what separates the Bafana Bafana forward from other players.

Mofokeng has faced criticism from some supporters and analysts over his finishing, but Mnguni believes the youngster remains one of South Africa’s strongest performers at international level.

The former defender says Mofokeng’s small frame has encouraged him to develop a style based on anticipation, quick passing and finding space rather than taking unnecessary physical challenges.

“The boy is short and small in stature. To compensate, he makes sure he is always first to the ball and releases it before you can touch him. If you do touch him, it is a foul,” Mnguni tells KICK OFF.

According to Mnguni, Mofokeng’s ability to stay on his feet is not accidental. Instead of inviting defenders into physical contests, he looks to use space to protect himself and maintain possession.

“The reason he rarely ends up on the floor is because he avoids contact. He simply wants to move into space. When he dribbles past you, he makes sure you are still five metres away.

“That approach allows Mofokeng to beat opponents without exposing himself to the kind of challenges that can lead to injury,” Mnguni added.

The former Mamelodi Sundowns player also believes Mofokeng does not dribble for the sake of showing off. His aim, Mnguni says, is to get beyond an opponent and then make the next pass.

“He is not the type to come up to you and say, ‘Hey, Buda, today I am going to dribble past you!’ Once he gets past you, he looks for space to play the ball.

Mnguni described that decision-making as the correct way to use dribbling in football, warning that players who attempt to force their way through defenders risk shortening their careers.

“That is how dribbling should be done in football. If you try to be clever and dribble through defenders, you will get injured. Your career will be very short.”